Grijalva Park

Park Overview

Grijalva Park is a spacious 17-acre community park located in Orange, California. Acquired by the city in 1999, it has since been developed into a versatile recreational space catering to various outdoor activities and sports. The park is known for being clean, well-maintained, and family-friendly.

Sports Facilities

At the center of the park are three lighted multi-purpose fields that can be reserved by sports teams or organizations. These fields are particularly popular for soccer games on weekends, though some visitors note that the fields can become muddy during certain times of the year.

Surrounding the fields is a .41-mile closed-loop dirt track, which attracts runners looking for a softer surface than cement or asphalt. There's also a shorter .29-mile loop at the back of the park, giving visitors options for their walking or running routes.

The park features two basketball courts and a sand volleyball court providing additional options for sports enthusiasts. The Grijalva Sports Center located in the park includes indoor facilities with basketball courts where pickup games are regularly played, and pickleball courts available for a small fee.

Fitness Area

One of Grijalva Park's unique features is its outdoor exercise circuit. Installed in 2014, this area includes 19 pieces of fitness equipment designed for strength and cardio workouts.

The exercise area is covered by shade structures, allowing visitors to work out comfortably even on sunny days. Many locals appreciate this free fitness option and regularly use the equipment for their workout routines.

Family-Friendly Amenities

For families, the park offers a large playground divided into two sections - one for younger children (toddlers) and another for older kids (5-12 years). The play areas include various swings, slides, monkey bars, and other playground equipment.

The ground is covered with wood chips for safety, and the playground area is shaded, making it comfortable for children even on warm days. Grijalva Park also includes picnic areas with BBQ stations and tables, making it suitable for gatherings and events. The gazebo areas can be reserved and include electrical outlets and charcoal BBQs.

Restrooms and Facilities

The park features clean, well-maintained restrooms that are accessible during park hours (5AM-11PM). These facilities are conveniently located near the main entrance area of the park.

Connectivity

The park is adjacent to the Santiago Creek Bike Trail, offering connectivity to a larger network of outdoor spaces. Visitors can access trails that connect to Hart Park and other areas in Orange, making it a great starting point for longer walks or bike rides along the riverbed.

Dog-Friendly

The park is dog-friendly, though pets must be kept on leashes. Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs along the dirt tracks and trails. The city occasionally offers dog training classes at the park.

Visitor Tips

While the park offers ample recreational facilities, it's worth noting that shade can be limited in some areas, particularly near the sports fields. Visitors are advised to bring sun protection, especially during warmer months.

Parking can become challenging during weekend soccer tournaments or special events, but is generally sufficient on regular days. The park is busiest on weekends and holidays but maintains a safe, family-oriented atmosphere throughout the week.